McCarthy Statement on Turkish and Israeli Flotilla Conflict

Statement

Today Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy (NY-04) issued the following statement on the May 31 incident involving a Turkish-sponsored flotilla and the Israeli Defense Forces:

"This was a premeditated attack, intended to provoke a response and purposely initiate a violent confrontation. We know that those on the flotilla had terrorist ties to Hamas and to Iran and that Israel warned the boats that they were in violation of a lawful blockade and offered them safe harbor, where all humanitarian aid would be off-loaded and delivered to Gaza. It is striking how quick the world looked to blame Israel for this incident but as the details have emerged, it has become clear that the Israeli military attempted to resolve the situation peacefully and in accordance with international law.

I fully support Israel and their right to keep its people safe. It is my sincere hope that this incident will not deter our country and the international community from the need to continue to support Israel, recognize its right to exist, and take the steps required to advance the peace process. Israel is a longstanding ally and friend of the United States and we should continue to do whatever we can to support Israel and ensure that intentional challenges to its security are resolved quickly and peacefully.

These Israeli service members were beaten and stabbed while just trying to escort the ship to port. Those on board the ship were trying to help a recognized terrorist group, Hamas. And Iran has offered to escort future flotillas. Iran is a threat not just to the United States or Israel but the world and is a real threat against global safety. We cannot just sit and watch Iran."

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